In this sensitive, intuitive and thoughtful first novel, Lesley A somehow convinces us that having a guardian angel in our lives is a perfectly natural and entirely believable event. To do this, without it seeming like fantasy, is a great achievement. An experienced and successful short story writer, Lesley has a gift for portraying characters we can all relate to. For me, this applies as much to 10 year old Ben as to Ruby's elderly and forgetful grandfather. And of course the main character Ruby herself. Moreover, the circumstances in which all the characters find themselves are equally believable. Add to that a flowing and fluent style of writing, and it is no surprise that Something Decidedly Odd is a winner.
Strange and wonderful happenings during a fortnight in July. Ruby, usually rushed off her feet, takes time to reflect with an unexpected friend. This encourages introspection and new understanding. I loved this novel with its fabulous characters, community setting and the gentle, charming story that unfolds. Something Decidedly Oddd illustrates that positive change is possible and should be embraced. What a delightful book!
An insightful and delightful read that shares hidden depths of trauma in a well-formulated plot. The surreal guardian angel becomes the norm, someone to be accepted by the reader. All the characters are strong. Ben is especially interesting and heartening and of course Ruby's journey through the two weeks of the story is immense. Their changing relationships with neighbour Toby and longstanding friends as the story progresses gives food for thought. Acts of kindness too give reason for pause. The introduction of Mel jarred in just the right way. Deep loss, love, despair and hope are shown with compassion and humour in a rollercoaster of actions and wonderful descriptions. An excellent addition to my bookshelves.
Fantastic read highly recommend and beautifully written. I couldn’t put it down totally escaped into the story, loved, loved, loved it!!!
Really enjoyed this book. Excellent writing style, lovely humour, depth of thought and feeling. Held my attention from start to finish. I did get a bit bogged down towards the end with all Ruby's doings, jugglings, friends and adjustments for herself and her son - but that I guess is the point: she needed to de-clutter their lives. It's not just about that - it's about the reason(s) as well. What a joy too to read good, solid, decent correct English. If Lesley A wrote another novel I would certainly read it.
An unusual, well written, un put downable story. I was completely drawn into Ruby's world. It managed to address problems that many people experience without using clichés; including, dealing with grief after a loved one dies, the joys and difficulties of being a single parent; juggling work, child care and social life in the modern world.
I can thoroughly recommend it to any reader.I really enjoyed this book. Once I started it I couldn't put it down. I liked the characters and the idea of there being Guardian Angels amongst us. There are so many aspects of this book that make you think about you own life and how it interacts and affects those around you. I will re-read this many times I am sure. Delightful.
A Fabulous book, read in 2 days couldn’t put it down!
Surpassed my high expectations. Couldn't put it down!!
Loved this! Once I started reading it I did not want to put it down! It was both thought provoking and entertaining at the same time. I’d highly recommend this book to anyone.
The novel was given to me as a birthday present.
Whilst it is a work of fiction, it carries messages of how the dynamics of a community could operate for the benefit of all those sharing space in a multi-generational environment. The presence of spiritual (in the broadest sense of the word) elements enhances the inventive storyline and encourages the reader to reflection on their own responses to these imagined story themes.
The book is very well written, the dialogue is natural and it would be an excellent holiday companion or bedtime read.
Buy it and be surprised at its refusal to be put down once started.
Loved this book, it was a gentle and quirky read. I have already some background interest in this subject, but it still encourages time for pause and reflection, in a positive way. I was self-isolating with covid at the time , so it was perfect timing for me. Looking forward to a sequel.
Loved the idea of a guardian àngel and pulled me in from the very beginning. The writing was gently humorous and made me smile. Ruby is very relatable and her human failings give encouragement to us all that change and growth is possible, particularly when we are nudged and encouraged by our own personal guardian angel. As a reader you'll want to encourage Ruby on her journey of self-enlightenment and probably recognise parts of yourself as you do so.
I really, really enjoyed this book. I've recommended It to all my friends (and I have quite a few!!) A gentle read written with great sensitivity to the underlying issues. I highly recommend. I couldn't put it down.
Fabulous story from beginning to end. A real page turner for me and an easy read. Definitely lessons to be learnt for one’s own life. Excellent in all ways. thank you Lesley.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the writing style was easy to get into and I liked how relatable the characters were. A great feel good read!
Familiar, accessible detail carries us through this novel, unsuspectingly, and the apparently simple, yet deep central device, one that we all need, seems to carry us along the protagonist's journey to self-awareness in a really accessible way. One to pack in your suitcase...
This isn't my usual type of reading but after a couple of chapters I started to enjoy. A lovely story to read when curled up with mug a full of coffee. Shows you how important it is to spend time on yourself and relax.
I love the way this book entices you into Ruby's world. You find yourself completely identifying with her character and the surprising encounters that change her outlook on life. It is a refreshing take on the contemporary novel, with very believable characters, avoiding all the usual clichés.
Loved the characters in this book. It made me think throughout the story. It’s a book I will definitely read again. I would certainly recommend this. A great read.
I really got into this book and didn't want to put it down once I'd started reading it. Both thought-provoking and entertaining at the same time. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone.
Loved the characters in this book. It made me think throughout the story. It’s a book I will definitely read again. I would certainly recommend this. A great read.
Great read thoroughly enjoyed it.
Loved it from the very start. Highly recommend.
A woman suffers from anxiety and panic attacks as she's rushing around from one place to another until an unexpected encounter with an old man changes her perspective on life.
This book really makes you rethink what's really important and how to prioritise your life.
There's a lot of wisdom in this entertaining story, and it's a relaxing, enjoyable read.
Strongly recommended!
An excellent read.
